Pour Point
Pour Point is a common term in the oil and fuel industry that refers to the lowest temperature at which oil will still flow. Think of it like the temperature at which honey becomes too thick to pour. This measurement is very important for jobs involving fuel testing, oil analysis, or quality control in refineries. When you see this term in resumes, it usually indicates experience with laboratory testing or quality assurance in petroleum products. Similar terms you might see include "cloud point" or "flow point."
Examples in Resumes
Conducted Pour Point analysis on over 500 crude oil samples annually
Improved Pour Point testing procedures resulting in 30% faster processing time
Supervised quality control team responsible for Pour Point and viscosity measurements
Typical job title: "Laboratory Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Laboratory Technicians
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Industry Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement a quality control program for Pour Point testing in a laboratory?
Expected Answer: Should discuss setting up standard operating procedures, training programs, equipment calibration schedules, and quality assurance measures. Should mention compliance with ASTM standards and industry regulations.
Q: What steps would you take to troubleshoot inconsistent Pour Point test results?
Expected Answer: Should explain systematic approach to identifying issues: checking equipment calibration, reviewing testing procedures, analyzing sample handling methods, and validating results against known standards.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors can affect Pour Point measurements?
Expected Answer: Should mention temperature control, sample preparation, testing equipment condition, and proper testing procedure following industry standards. Should also discuss importance of proper documentation.
Q: How do you ensure accuracy in Pour Point testing?
Expected Answer: Should discuss proper sample handling, equipment maintenance, following standard procedures, and regular calibration checks. Should mention importance of duplicate testing and verification.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain what Pour Point is and why it's important?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that Pour Point is the lowest temperature at which oil flows, and why this matters for oil quality and equipment operation in cold conditions.
Q: What safety precautions do you take when conducting Pour Point tests?
Expected Answer: Should mention proper protective equipment, handling of chemicals, following laboratory safety procedures, and proper disposal of materials.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic laboratory testing procedures
- Sample preparation and handling
- Record keeping and documentation
- Understanding of safety protocols
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced testing methodologies
- Equipment troubleshooting
- Quality control procedures
- Data analysis and reporting
Senior (5+ years)
- Laboratory management
- Method development and validation
- Training and supervision
- Quality program implementation
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic laboratory safety procedures
- Unfamiliarity with ASTM testing standards
- Poor understanding of quality control importance
- Lack of attention to detail in documentation
Related Terms
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